As a result of the high cost of meat, people
are constantly looking for a cheaper source of
protein. Eggs provide a valuable yet affordable source of
high quality protein and vitamins required for
normal growth, especially for children.

This guide will show you how to build, manage
and maintain your own affordable household egg production unit on a small scale. Later on you
can increase the size of your unit in order to sell eggs
in your community, if the demand for eggs is big enough.

The information given is based on poultry production
in the warmer to hot areas of South Africa.

Fresh manure can be covered with a layer of sawdust or dried leaves, grass or any other
dry vegetation every day. It will become good compost
if turned regularly. This method also helps to
remove bad smells.

The manure can be sold
in feed bags as organic
fertiliser or compost for
vegetable gardens. You can
also use it for your own garden
or vegetable garden or lawn or cattle pastures.

o If you buy point-of-lay pullets from a
reliable producer, they will be fully
vaccinated against all major diseases
no need for you to buy vaccines.

o To make sure that the hens adapt
quickly to their new home, give them
Stresspack in their drinking water when they arrive at your home.

o If there is a sudden serious outbreak or
epidemic of a specific poultry disease in your area (eg Newcastle disease), vaccinate all
hens against the disease immediately. If the hens
get lice, treat them with Karbadust powder.

o Keep wild birds away from the hens and their
feed, to prevent the spread of the disease to the hens.

o Make sure that the hens AT ALL TIMES:

- have clean, fresh, cool water
(wash water bottles once a month)
- have enough fresh feed
(throw wet, mouldy or rotten feed away)
- are kept under shelter away from the sun,
rain and cold.